DSW contest searches for perfect FIT

COLUMBUS, Ohio — DSW is giving students at the Fashion Institure of Technology in New York City a chance to accelerate their careers. The retailer announced that is sponsoring "A Design Affair," a contest that will award one winner with a cash prize, intership and his or her shoes being sold at DSW.

DSW Inc. vice chairman and chief merchandising officer Debbie Ferree kicked off the contest Wednesday night with FIT students at the HH Brown showroom this evening. Over the next six weeks contestants will design a dress shoe and a boot. Five finalists will have their designs produced by one of five vendors: Mark Fisher, Nine West, Chinese Laundry, Vince Camuto and Highline United. The final samples will be judged by a panel composed of DSW leadership and the ultimate winner will receive an internship with his or her brand partner, a $1,500 cash prize and will see his or her shoes produced for a select number of DSW stores and DSW.com. In addition, the runner-up will win an internship with his or her brand partner and a $250 DSW gift card.

"We are very excited to partner with the Fashion Institute of Technology to sponsor 'A Design Affair,'" said Ferree. "We cannot wait to see the creative designs presented by the FIT students. It's possible that 'A Design Affair' might just give the fashion world its next big shoe designer!"